Bunny Trails

I Love My Toes

2012-02-01T21:07:00.000-07:00

For Veggie Tales fans, this may bring to mind "I Love My Lips" by Larry Boy. Otherwise, disregard this portion.

I really do appreciate the ten toes that God gave me. Granted, they're not lovely or anything, but they're nicely teamed up, with five on each foot. They're super helpful when it comes to balance and walking and such. I especially like the way they keep my socks in place. All around, I'm sure glad to have them.

Why then, you might ask, do I keep breaking them?

Apparently I'm just super clumsy.

This makes break #4 in under three years now. There was also that time probably 15 years ago when I broke one while chasing one of my boys around the house. All of my left foot and its toes cleared the cat post. Except the pinkie.

And in case you have nothing better to do and want to read about one of the injuries, it had something to do with a Crock Pot lid.

The other time, I apparently didn't blog about. I will say it was the worst. I kicked a nice sturdy Herman Miller office chair early in the morning to break one toe. Then I kicked a dresser and further damaged that toe and added another to the pain later in the day. You know, in case I didn't hurt the first enough with the office chair, I guess.

Wordless Wednesday - Photobooth Props

2012-02-01T14:19:00.000-07:00

Check out more wordlessness at Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

Wordless Wednesday - Cherry Reflection

2012-01-24T21:44:00.000-07:00

Check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub for more wordlessness.

Airsoft Fun

2012-01-23T10:35:00.000-07:00

Last year, the boys purchased some fairly inexpensive Airsoft guns (well, actually, they seemed a little pricey at the time, but I digress). It turns out that our back yard makes an excellent battlefield - trees, trailers, more trailers, more trees - all kinds of good places for hiding. Of course, we wear the requisite eye protection and then proceed to shoot one another. Oh, it stings quite a bit, but it's still good fun. Even when you have a welt on your arm for the next week or so.

They've even gotten their friends and cousin involved in the fun.

And then it took a turn for the more...well, hard core...pricey.

Zach's friend found out about an Airsoft specialty store. A store where they're much more serious than just the just-bought-it-at-Big-5 kind of shoppers (no dig on Big 5 - we like them!). So he ordered himself a MAC-11 from an online store (the local store doesn't carry this one). We made a trip to Denver for some green gas since no one carries it here locally.

Fortunately, he had some time to try it out before we had to leave Saturday evening. Even hubby got in on that action. In fact, he had a pretty good time with it.

See that rectangular silvery box in the distance? It's an old RV refrigerator shell. Turns out that it makes a great target.

Don't worry - it had already been punctured before he started shooting at it. In fact, that's why it was in our back yard, since it had to be removed and disassembled from the RV from which it was originally located.

Apparently RV refrigerator insulation is great for holding onto your BBs. Makes the yard much tidier, right?

Wordless Wednesday - Burberry

2012-01-17T22:31:00.000-07:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

Wordless Wednesday - Thirsty Cat

2012-01-10T23:11:00.000-07:00

So I usually follow the concept of these posts being wordless. But this week, I just have to speak up. Firstly, this is a guest photographer post - my husband shot these with his cell phone while on a job today.

Secondly, my boys felt sorry for this cat wearing a sweater.

Oh my goodness! This is one of the funniest things I've seen in a long time!!! And yes, the cat is drinking out of the bird bath.

Check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub for more wordlessness.

Wordless Wednesday - Sunset

2012-01-03T21:35:00.000-07:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

Consistently Inconsistent

2011-12-29T09:33:00.000-07:00

That's been one of the other titles that would be perfect for my blog. It's one of the things in my life that I lament over, kick myself around regarding, and generally am frustrated about. When I read back through my journals, I find plenty of times when I was most unhappy with myself for my lack of consistency.

But I think that my perspective hasn't been quite right.

If I were consistent - according to my own definition - wouldn't that be the same as being perfect? Isn't that quite impossible? Last I checked, there's only one man who was ever perfect and that's Jesus. I don't even come close.

I often run into the wall of unrealistic expectations. That doesn't mean I should just cross it off the list forever, not caring whether I'm consistent in anything or not. But I need to extend myself a little grace and understanding, realizing that I should be steadfast and disciplined in things, but if...no, when...I fall short, it's okay. Get up, dust myself off, and hop back on the trail. I would certainly offer the same kindness and mercy to others, so why not for me?

I just printed out a chronological Bible reading plan for next year from Diving Deeper Ministries over at the Internet Cafe Devotions. I hesitate to do that, because I know of my past inconsistencies and that causes me to sink my efforts before I even begin. Why bother? I know I'll just fail.

That, by the way, is another skewed perspective. I seem to have quite a few of them.

So I'm signing the linky, jumping aboard a year-long commitment to reading my Bible regularly, knowing full well that I won't be perfect. I will miss some days. I will get frustrated with myself. But I will just keep plugging away and forgive myself in the process. Instead of looking at what I didn't accomplish or where I messed up, I will look toward Jesus and look forward to what He has for me as I spend time in the Word, knowing that it will be glorious!

Wordless Wednesday - Empty Chipotle Patio

2011-12-28T10:07:00.000-07:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterlo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

Dust-Free

2011-12-26T18:43:00.000-07:00

Well, it wasn't so bad. I think it took about 2 1/2 hours, but that included a jaunt to the hardware store for a new extension cord (the kind with the flat plug-in part which fits behind the dresser) and visiting with Lucy (while cleaning).

Dresser Declutter Recap:

Cleaning supplies? Check.

Massive amounts of dust? Check.

Lovely, clean dresser? Check.

The shoebox on the left is John's stuff. I really can't sort his stuff for him. Sorry, honey. You'll have to handle that one yourself. But it's all nicely contained.

Ability to see my beautiful purple silk flowers from my mom for my 40th birthday? Check.

Plugged-in, functional stained glass lamp (A gift also from my mom. She did the stained glass. Thus the need for an extension cord.)? Check.

Can you believe I had that much dust on my dresser?

Can you believe I actually shared that here?

Again, this is where minimal readership is probably a good thing. Who has that kind of dust on their dresser? My goodness.

But my lamp is pretty. And visible. And plugged in.

Which makes me very happy.

Catch Up Transition Preparation Week

2011-12-26T14:37:00.000-07:00

I'm not always sure what to call this week between Christmas and New Year's. Maybe just the week between Christmas and New Year's. But it's a week of cleaning up, catching up, getting ready, and let's see how much I can possibly cram into one free week for me. I suspect I'll get about 1/25 of the things done that I'd like, but I'm kind of used to that.

One biggie (as ever) for me, is decluttering. So while there are plenty of other tasks to be done, I'm going to declutter at least one area every day this week. I have Erin Rooney Doland's Unclutter our Life in One Week, but I don't think I can to that. I just can't devote that much time to one thing when I have kids, other family, friends, and other things needing to be done. But I'm still reading the book and gleaning some useful nuggets. Perhaps over the course of a longer period of time, I can actually complete the entire book. Either that, or my family takes a vacation without me for a week. Nah. I would hate that.

So today's decluttering task is our dresser. Our very big, has shelves, and too much flat space dresser. It's an absolute train wreck and drives me crazy. Did you know that when you have too much junk on your dresser, you really cannot ever dust it. And when you don't dust, you notice that your dresser has taken on a new shade - it's no longer dark brown, but more of a dusty gray-brown. It doesn't even match the other furniture any more. Maybe if I stopped dusting the other items...

So as scary as this is, I'm sharing with you and the whole entire cyber world, a picture of the current state of our dresser:

Boy, am I glad that only 2-3 people read this blog. On a good day!

Now I HAVE to get it done. If for no other reason, to show a picture of what it looks like after the decluttering (and dusting!) process.

And when I'm done? I'm having two squares of this:

Thanks to my sister and her family. :-)

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T01:00:00.001-07:00

Unplugged and Wordless Wednesday

2011-12-21T23:22:00.000-07:00

All too often, my posts are just the random overflow of my brain. Which means I have no idea what to title them. Perhaps I should come up with a title AFTER writing the post. Now there's a novel idea.

Isn't this a cool shot? On the right, the Christmas lights are reflected in a glass bottle. Behind and to the left is a framed print in which the lights are also reflected. I love how the colors look in the bottle, though.

I spend a ridiculous amount of time on my computer and then lament the things I don't get done. Is it just me, or is there a problem here? I was just reading David duChemin's holiday/Christmas post and it got me thinking that I need to just unplug from all this online life. Yeah, all? Meaning I troll around on FB, read some of emails, play some games, look at some websites, and generally do nothing productive. Meh.

So Friday evening, at 6:00 p.m., I'm shutting this thing down until Monday morning. The ONLY exception will be if I need to get on to pay a bill or do something like that which must be done. I will peruse my emails on my phone, but that's it. No FB. No Twitter. No blogging (as if that will be any different!). Zero. Zip. Nada.

I think I'll schedule a couple of blog posts, so for the 2-3 people left who actually read my blog on those rare occasions I post some words, there'll be something here.

That's another thing. Wordless Wednesday. It's been fun and all, but it's kind of lost its oomph for me. I keep doing it because it's the only thing I've ever been consistent with here in the blogosphere. Maybe in my whole life. Well, other than breathing, eating, and sleeping. In fact, I have 201 Wordless Wednesday posts! Well, there are 5 more that are tagged with WW instead of Wordless Wednesday. That means 206 weeks of posting a picture every Wednesday (or late Tuesday night). If I post two more weeks, it will be an even FOUR YEARS.

Wow.

I'm a little stunned.

I don't know if I'll continue with it or not. We'll see. I am interested in participating in Darcy's Sweet Shot Tuesday, but I may do that on my photo blog.

So that's about it for now. Maybe if I survive the unplugged thing, it could become a monthly habit. Or dare I saw, weekly? I'm sure it's possible. After all, I lived without this internet once upon a time. I lived without a lot of things once upon a time. But that's another story.

Wordless Wednesday - Look I'm a Lego

2011-12-20T18:36:00.000-07:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

Wordless Wednesday - Bokeh

2011-12-13T23:32:00.000-07:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

Wordless Wednesday - Colorado Beauty

2011-12-07T22:01:00.000-07:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

Wordless Wednesday - Peek-A-Boo

2011-11-29T21:31:00.000-07:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

Wordless Wednesday - NEW!

2011-11-23T21:41:00.000-07:00

Better late than never! For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

Friends, Family, and Whatember

2011-11-22T22:02:00.001-07:00

So saying it's a crazy week would be a bit of an understatement. But it's all good stuff, so I'm super excited in a crazy sort of way. My awesome friend from Kansas, Carrie will be arriving tomorrow with her kids in tow to spend a few days here in Colorado, for which I'm SUPER jazzed!! And since she's an amazing photographer, we also get to have family pix done.

I'm going to have 18 people here for Thanksgiving. It will be cozy, chaotic and loads of fun!! I'm really looking forward to it.

A big surprise is on its way to me via the UPS peeps. Well, it's a surprise to you, not to me. I can hardly wait.

I get to see the orthopedist tomorrow to likely confirm that I have a torn meniscus. Oh, joy.

For some reason, I'm having strange and bizarro dreams last thing in the morning before I get up. I think it needs to stop because it's wreaking havoc on my getting out of bed. Yesterday, I even barked at my husband because he tried to wake me up and I was very angry in my dream and yelling at some rude people. As I began to wake up, I realized I needed to apologize. Goodness.

I'll take Dreams I Don't Remember, Alex, for $200.

I was leaving a comment over at Lisa's blog - The Pennington Post and I came up with something brilliant. And I quote (from myself):

"And Thanksgiving of 2011?!?!? How the heck did that happen? Next thing you know, they'll be telling us it's nearly Christmas. And then 2012! No way, I say! We need another month tucked in here between November and December. One free of any sort of holiday whatsoever. We'll call it Whatember. So you can do whatember you want during it since there's no pressure of birthdays, holidays, and other such interruptions. Oh, and there will be 41 days in Whatember so it doesn't pass too quickly."

Don't you think we totally need the month of Whatember? Of course, with its 41 days, the little saying will have to change.

Thirty days has September,
April, June, and November.
Forty-one for Whatember.
All the rest have 31,
except February.

I think it works. What do we have to do to get the calendar folks on board? And whatever other minions might be involved? I seriously need that extra-long, super-sized month this time of year. Is anyone else with me?

Wordless Wednesday - Chemistry

2011-11-15T22:05:00.000-07:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

Just When You Thought It Was Safe

2011-11-15T13:46:00.001-07:00

From August through October, I was on the go a lot. Finally arriving in November, things seemed as if they would slow down. Just a teensy bit. Yeah, right.

I guess the on the go a lot thing settled down, but now I have projects galore. Wedding photos to finish editing, a couple of sewing projects, a newsletter to put together, company coming in a week, pictures to take, a web site to work on, Christmas cards and shopping, and always there's homeschool and a household to care for. Goodness. It's always something, isn't it?

When we think at a certain point, life will . . . settle down, be easier, be under control, (fill in the blank) . . . we just set ourselves up for failure. Not only that, we can start to live for some future time, because we believe it will somehow be better than it is now. Whatever better may mean.

I don't think there's anything wrong in looking toward an end date for something and planning to accomplish the thing in a timely manner. But we have to learn how to live here and now in this moment, not always looking forward to some nebulous time that will never be what we expect anyway.

Because really? Life will always be busy. There will always be projects and tasks and interruptions and people and such. Just plan on it and squeeze all the enjoyment out of it you can. Because that's reality. That's where we all live. We can either make the most of that time and whatever it may bring, or we can miss so much as it flies past while we're looking to something next week, next month, or next year.

And if you happen upon a serendipitous moment of calm, appreciate it for what it is, breathe it in deeply, and be refreshed for the return to real life.

This is the day the LORD has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it.
Psalm 118:24

Wordless Wednesday - Big Wheel

2011-11-09T16:44:00.000-07:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

Desperately Seeking Adjectives

2011-11-04T21:08:00.000-06:00

Before blogging, Facebook, and life on the internet, my circle of family, friends, and acquaintances with whom I had regular contact was much, much (MUCH) smaller. I doubt it's different for many others. But now that there are all these blogs I read, Facebook statuses I comment on, and photographs I check out, I've begun to run out of adjectives.

I see a picture that is just amazing and stunning.

I read a blog post that's hilarious. Or sweet. Or so true.

I comment on Facebook with awesome, sweetness, or bummer.

I feel as if I use the same adjectives over and over and over and over.

Lather, rinse, repeat.

So I've decided that I need to retrieve the thesaurus, peruse the dictionary, and entreat my fellow bloggers, Facebookers, friends, and family to help come up with some different adjectives. What have you got? Leave me a comment with some interesting adjectives that could be used to respond in the various venues. Let's see what kind of a list we can create.

Wordless Wednesday - Ride On Red

2011-11-01T22:55:00.000-06:00

Check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub for more photo fun.

Catching Up

2011-10-30T22:37:00.000-06:00

Wow. Life has sure been busier than normal. Ever since August, I've been on the go and generally quite occupied with this and that.

Trip to Breckenridge & Glenwood Springs
25th Anniversary
New year of homeschool
Ladies retreat in Buena Vista
1st trip to Denver - Women of Faith with Pam
2nd trip to Denver - taking Pam to the airport and picking up nightstands from a friend
3rd trip to Denver - David Crowder Band concert with the girls
4th trip to Denver - Casa Bonita, Lego Store, and other such fun with my sister, nieces, and the boys
Messed my knee up in self-defense class
5th trip to Denver - photowalk with D, hurt my foot
Shot a wedding yesterday and my knee went out

In addition to the regular stuff of life. I don't think I've been out of town more than a handful times in the past year. Apparently I saved it all up for these two and a half months.

From what I've read about having a torn meniscus, I'm thinking there's a very good chance that is what is wrong with my knee. I had problems with it last year, but after some chiropractic care, kinesio tape, and massage therapy, it got better and life went back to normal. A couple weeks ago in self-defense class, it made a loud popping sound during a front kick. It wasn't terribly painful, but I was aware that my knee wasn't really okay, so I made an appointment with the orthopedist. Of course, I can't get in until closer to Thanksgiving.

But then last night at the wedding, as we went outside to shoot the First Look, it just went out. And this time it did hurt. A lot. I was totally blessed with a last-minute wedding photographer joining me and she was such a huge help. Both because I often couldn't move fast or well and she graciously shared her knowledge and expertise. Thanks, Briana, you rock, my friend!! I can't wait to see your pictures, too.

I'll be calling the orthopedist tomorrow to see if I can get in any sooner. A cancellation, perhaps? I sure hope so. It's quite uncomfortable to walk and maneuver stairs.

In the meantime, there's homeschooling, photo editing, and house cleaning to do. No more Denver trips planned for now. Time to settle in and start thinking about the holidays soon.

Colorado Weather

2011-10-26T20:48:00.000-06:00

The weather is rarely boring in Colorado. It goes from one extreme to the next in short order.

Earlier this week - 70s, sunshine, gorgeous.

Today - 30s, snowy, still gorgeous.

Wordless Wednesday - Duck Pond

2011-10-25T21:24:00.000-06:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

Wordless Wednesday - Colored Meters

2011-10-18T21:44:00.000-06:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

18 Years Ago - Nothing to Do

2011-10-18T05:37:00.002-06:00

Two days after Caleb's due date and it was my first day off by myself. John went back to work, being that it was Monday and all.

I couldn't finish painting the border on the baby's walls (numb fingers)
I couldn't do any crafts (numb fingers)
I couldn't clean very well (sciatica)
I learned that daytime television is extremely BORING
I couldn't focus on anything else (extreme ADD)

So I called my office and told them I was coming back on Tuesday.

That, my friends, is seriously bored.

I had a doctor's appointment and he scheduled me to be induced on Wednesday morning. The baby was over eight pounds and I'd had borderline gestational diabetes the last couple of months of my pregnancy, so he really didn't want the baby to get too big..

So I went back to work on Tuesday, having nothing to really do there, either, but at least there were people with whom to interact and hang out. I had already trained my temporary replacement so I didn't exactly have a job to do. But there was a quarterly meeting with a group of physicians that night so I worked on getting that ready. I also attended the meeting that evening. Even if I went into labor, I would be in a room of primary care physicians. I was sure they could handle a delivery. Their services went unneeded, though.

So I went home later that night and John and I sat in the family room, watching tv, discussing the fact that this would be the last time we did so by ourselves for a very long time.

18 Years Ago - Bored, No Baby, and a Movie

2011-10-16T23:48:00.018-06:00

Eighteen years ago today, I was not having a baby. Which was kind of a big deal because it was my first son's due date. Although I didn't know I was having a son at that point.

It was a Saturday and John and I were quite bored. Because you don't really make plans on your baby's due date since you might actually have the baby. Or not.

So we went to see a movie. Cool Runnings. Which is fairly remarkable, because by the end of my pregnancy, I had the attention span of a two year old. Exponential ADD. But somehow I managed to follow along with the entire movie. It's a great movie, btw. If you've never seen it, you should.

Not having our baby wasn't too much of a surprise since there had been no contractions or anything else that indicated he was on his way. But it made for an odd day of limbo.

I was also done working, as Friday was my last day before going on maternity leave. Even more living in limbo. I couldn't do a lot of the things that I liked doing because I was very pregnant, had terrible sciatica in my right leg, numb fingers from swelling in my wrists, and that whole issue of no ability to focus.

And I couldn't limbo well with an 8+ pound baby in my tummy, even though that's where I was living. He stayed there another four days, too.

Wordless Wednesday - Seed Pod

2011-10-11T21:46:00.000-06:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

Great Weekend - Part 2

2011-10-10T22:36:00.000-06:00

Saturday came much too early, after only a few hours of sleep, but we were up and at it. Grabbed some food at the buffet downstairs and then zipped through the Starbucks drive-thru. Saturday's itinerary at Women of Faith had Lisa Whelchel, Amy Grant, and Marilyn, Mehberg, in addition to some of the ladies from Friday.

Pam & I were also scheduled to attend the Kelby Worldwide Photowalk in downtown Denver that evening. We were SO excited to participate, but we were SO tired. In fact, we had become pretty loopy by late afternoon. Pam wasn't so sure she could remember how to use her camera. Neither of us felt that we had the energy to walk around downtown Denver for three hours. Plus we'd still need to have dinner after that and head back to Colorado Springs, getting home somewhat late. Now you KNOW we were tired if we willingly bailed on a photowalk. But we did. There was a wait list, so we knew there would be more than enough people to fill the walk.

So we got some dinner at Rubio's, felt a little recharged, and went home. We saved the photowalk for the Sunday.

Oh, we did wake up a bit, so we sat up ridiculously late looking at our photos and talking about the weekend. Problem was everyone in the house had gone to bed and we were laughing uncontrollably. I was concerned we might keep people awake. Or wake them up. So we moved our photo-viewing giggle fest to the garage. And faced away from the house.

Giggle-induced blur

We completely and utterly wore ourselves out again with all the hilarity. Good times.

Oh, and we didn't wake anyone in the house. Not sure I can say the same for the neighbors, but no one said anything, so I think we're in the clear.

Great Weekend - part 1

2011-10-06T05:42:00.001-06:00

It's been a little crazy around here. But in a good way.

On Thursday, my friend, Pam, came to visit for a few days. I picked her up at the airport (in another city) and we went and checked in at the hotel. We then drove downtown to enjoy an amazing dinner at the Spaghetti Factory. I love The Spaghetti Factory. I really love their spaghetti with Mizithra cheese and brown butter. Absolutely heavenly!

Back to the hotel for some chatting, laughing, and sleeping. Light on the sleeping.

Friday morning and we're out the door to attend Women of Faith - Over the Top at the Pepsi Center. There were a LOT OF WOMEN there. I know, it's probably what we should expect, right? Ten thousand of them.

The day got off to a roaringly hilarious start with Patsy Clairmont and Andy Andrews. Not that the other speakers weren't terrific, but I could've listened to Patsy & Andy all weekend. I could listen to them all month. Maybe the rest of the year. The emcee was right about Patsy - she's so cute you just want to put her in your pocket and take her home. Loved her!!

I really knew nothing about Andy, but he was something else! In a good way. You know how people will say they want to bottle up all the energy a toddler or young child has, because they just don't have it anymore? Well, Andy does. In a big way. They guy was ALL OVER the place. And talking very fast. And heading off on bunny trails galore. He practically ran back and forth across the stage, up and down the stairs, out into the audience, and back. But all with a great message. Good stuff.

We also got to see and listen to Brenda Warner, Mandisa, and Sandi Patty on Friday. Loved them all!

Mandisa is so cute - she wears a Snuggie offstage. Tee hee!

In order to not have too huge a post, I'll share the rest of the weekend in Part 2.

Congratulations!

2011-10-05T22:25:00.001-06:00

Well, I entirely missed my drawing date for The Busy Mom's Bible giveaway. Sorry about that. Anyway, thank you random.org for randomly selecting the number 6. Six is the number for Dawn Camp.

Congratulations, Dawn!! You'll have an email from me shortly regarding details.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

And now for the second giveaway with five sets of two books - When a Woman Trusts God by Sheila Walsh and Friendships for Grown-Ups by Lisa Whelchel.

Once again, courtesy of random.org, the following numbers were randomly selected:

6 - nAn

10 - Suzanne

9 - Pam

8 - dB family (Deborah)

3 - Beth

Congratulations to you all!! You'll be receiving an email from me shortly regarding details.

Thank you to everyone who participated!

Wordless Wednesday - Nice Landing

2011-10-04T22:20:00.001-06:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

Will I Obey?

2011-10-04T17:38:00.000-06:00

I drive up the heavily-trafficked hill. As I move into the left lane, I discover that everyone is doing the opposite – there’s a car stalled just ahead. I move back and pass the woman sitting her stationery car. She looks a little lost and very alone. A small voice says that I should go help her. Stopped at this red light, I could turn off into the school parking lot. But I’d never get across the street to her aid, I think. Besides, what could I do? Push her car up the hill? The signal turns green and I drive away with a heavy rock in my belly. I disobeyed the prompting of the Holy Spirit. The one that I so long to hear. The one that just yesterday, I asked to be quiet enough to hear.

I drive on to the next intersection, turn around, and come back. I pull into the same school parking lot I just passed; I park and head over toward the street. As I do, a young man meets me. Apparently her car began to run as he came up to help her. There was also another woman coming to her assistance, now crossing back to her own vehicle. “All those people and no one to help,” the young man says. Sadly, that is too often the truth. We’re all too busy with our own agendas to stop and help.

I drive away, wondering why God called me back there. I did nothing of value. But then He quietly places the answer upon my heart; the outcome is not the issue – obedience to His still, small voice is.

“Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice…” 1 Samuel 15:22

Once Upon a Time, the sequel

2011-09-28T23:09:00.000-06:00

So the blogging was good and fun, visiting others was always interesting, and I was an avid commenter. Then my dear friend Heather ~~conned~~ invited me to join her at the Homeschool Blog Awards. As in to be a part of the team. She envisioned a site where homeschoolers could be encouraged, laugh a little, learn about great homeschool curricula, and learn about helpful resources. So naturally, I jumped on board.

I was later invited to contribute to another homeschool site. Which I also did. Then came the Twitter and the Facebook and ning groups. StumbleUpon, Delicious, BlogFrog, Tumblr, Flickr, TOS Crew, book reviews, 365 Projects, and Google+.

Somewhere along that crazy bunny trail, I blogged less and less and less.

I found myself missing the {yes, I'm really going to say it!} good old days of just blogging. I mean I love all the interaction and chatting with friends and staying current with the news and getting free things to review and on and on and on. But it all took me further and further away from my blog, as well as those that I used to read. And I like blogging. I like writing. I like interacting with other bloggers. But I sure do miss it.

{We interrupt this post to bring you a random picture of early morning fog shot at o'dark thirty.}

The other day I realized that I lament not having anything to write about {which isn't true - I've been jotting down notes and recording ideas on my iPhone for quite some time} and not having time to write {which also isn't true - I fritter away a ridiculous amount of time on FB and Twitter and G+}. And then Facebook changed the landscape. Not for the better, imho. But it was the kick in the pants I needed. It's time to extricate myself from so much social media and go back to bouncing around in the blogosphere. Oh, I'm not leaving FB and Twitter and G+ completely. But I'm working on some methods to minimize their hold on my time. So if you want to see what's going on with me, you can come check out my blog again. Actually, if you click on that little "Subscribe in a reader" button in the right sidebar, you won't have to pop over here all the time. You'll know when I've posted something. Which should be more often.

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Today's giveaway is actually two items. Well, five each of two items. I was privileged to receive When a Woman Trusts God by Sheila Walsh and Friendships for Grown-Ups by Lisa Whelchel from BookSneeze with the promise of a review and giveaway. I read them both, but somehow never got to the review writing and giveaway portion (sorry about that). But that means you now have the chance to them.

The reviews for these books can be read here.

Leave a comment below to be entered to win a copy of each book (5 winners total). Feel free to share on Twitter for another entry. Just be sure to come back and leave me the link to your tweet. This is open to residents of the U.S. and Canada (sorry to international friends). It's open until Wednesday, October 5 at 10:00 p.m. Mountain Standard Time.

Book Reviews

2011-09-28T23:07:00.003-06:00

It's hard to imagine someone as popular and sweet as Lisa Whelchel lacking for friends. But that's exactly what happened for a number of years. As an actress, there were plenty of people around, but no one with whom she had a close friendship. Over the years, Lisa built up a self-protective wall, relying upon her own strength. Within her self-sufficient barrier, she also found herself quite lonely.

In her book, Friendships for Grown-Ups Lisa shares her journey from being safe but lonesome to learning how to have close friendships. It wasn't always easy, but her ",...desire to experience connection was stronger than the desire to be safe." Her quest was filled with ups and downs as she discovered things about herself, others, and God's perspective regarding friendships. I really enjoyed this book as Lisa found the joy of godly friendships and gracefully shares what she learned in the process.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Do you struggle with trusting God, others, and even yourself? In Sheila Walsh's book, Beautiful Things Happen When a Woman Trusts God she "...opens wide her lifelong battle with trust and the moment-by-moment choices she made to follow where God led." She also includes the stories of ten people from the Bible who not only struggled, but also triumphed, as they discovered the beautiful things God did as they chose to trust Him.

I found Sheila's book to offer great encouragement. It's interesting to me that when we struggle with anything in life, we tend to feel that we're the only one, all the while assuming that everyone else has it all together. Yet nothing could be further from the truth. Through her transparency, she offers hope and inspiration that you can learn how to trust the Lord and be freed from the bondage of fear.

"Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage." Galatians 5:1

The book is also supplemented with a 12-week Bible study, which would be great to do on your own, with a friend, or a small group.

Disclaimer: I received the above books free from BookSneeze in order to review them. The opinions stated here are my own. I also received five additional copies of each book to give away. The giveaway is on this blog post. You have until Wednesday, October 5, 2011 at 10:00 p.m. Mountain Standard Time to enter the giveaway. This giveaway is open to residents of the U.S. and Canada.

Wordless Wednesday - Wedding Chapel

2011-09-27T21:24:00.001-06:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

P.S. - I'll be shooting a wedding here next month.

P.P.S. - If you're here for the giveaways, there'll be a new one posted tomorrow. You can still enter for The Busy Mom's Bible giveaway.

Once Upon a Time...

2011-09-27T05:32:00.066-06:00

...there was a girl {well, technically, she probably qualified as a woman} who found out about blogging because she read the blog of this other girl {also technically a woman} and she thought it seemed like a fun and cool thing to do. The first girl wanted to have her own blog {though she knew not why} but could never decide upon a fabulous name for her blog. So she just read the second girl's blog. And blogs that the second girl linked to. Times were good.

Then the second girl had a contest on her blog! One in which she was giving away a digital camera. Well. The first girl only had a film camera and she desperately wanted a digital camera. But in order to enter, she had to write a blog post. Gasp! She had no blog. She had no blog name. She'd better come up with something and she'd better do it soon.

She had been tossing around a few names, but none of them really captured what she thought her blog would be about. But somehow, this contest propelled her in a new direction and she arrived at a name.

It's true. Five years ago today, I started Bunny Trails. In hopes of winning a digital camera. Which I didn't. But I was able to buy one about a month and a half later. Which was very helpful for the blogging efforts.

Just like the rest of my life, it's been an up and down journey. Sometimes I post fairly frequently. Other times, my blog gets a little desiccated. Along the way, I've found some other wonderful bloggers, have joined bigger blogging projects, participated in memes, and had an all-around good time.

Oh. The other blogger who inspired me to join this craziness? That would be Sprittibee. Heather was my first blog friend ever. She was so sweet and helpful as I ventured out into the blogosphere. She even sent me html codes so I could tweak things a little bit. I still haven't had a chance to meet her IRL, but one of these days it's going to happen, right Heather?

Happy Five Year Blogiversary to me!

And if you stuck with me this long, how about a giveaway? Like all the things I have to give away that have been sitting here waiting for me to post them. I'm scheduling a number of posts {complete with randomly unrelated photos}, so there'll be a new giveaway each day. Feel free to enter just one, a couple, or all of them.

All giveaways will be open for one week. So check back daily to see what goodie is up next for winning.

Today's giveaway is The Busy Mom's Bible

I reviewed this Bible last year and while it's great, I'm just kind of attached to my favorite ever, highlighted, written in, used to be rose colored, but is now recovered in purple duct tape Bible. So this lovely has been sitting on my shelf. It's like new, as I didn't read it more than long enough to review it.

If you'd like a chance to win this, leave a comment here, along with what works for you to set aside time to be in the Word. If you'd like another entry, tweet the contest and then come back and leave a separate comment to let me know.

This giveaway will be open until Monday, October 3rd at 10:00 p.m., Mountain Time.

Wordless Wednesday - Morning Dew

2011-09-20T22:10:00.000-06:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

Wordless Wednesday - Airsoft

2011-09-14T23:33:00.003-06:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

Young Love by Mat Kearney

2011-09-09T13:49:00.001-06:00

We have been Mat Kearney fans since we first heard his music, so I was excited to have the opportunity to review his latest CD, Young Love. Young Love combines quite a few upbeat, fun tunes with his mellower, ballad style. It opens with a catchy song called Hey Mama, which had me hooked from the first time I heard it. I'm singing this one all the time. Which is okay, because it's a really fun song. Whether you're a Mat Kearney fan or haven't even heard of him, I highly recommend this CD. Check out this totally cool, interactive graphic:ps- sorry for the weird alignment of things - apparently I'm having issues with the groovy, interactive graphic. Get the CD, though. It's awesome.
Disclaimer: As a member of the One2One network, I was provided with a free copy of this CD in order to review it. The opinions stated here are my own.

Wordless Wednesday - Seriously

2011-09-06T21:24:00.000-06:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

Glenwood Springs, Part 1

2011-09-05T22:23:00.000-06:00

{Completely unrelated - I'm rather vexed by Blogger's new posting pages. Nothing that you're seeing, but it's kind of messing up the mojo on my end. So if the mojo seems a little off to you, it's Blogger's fault.}

After the fun we had in Breckenridge, we headed farther west to Glenwood Springs, our final destination for our mini vacation. We had a great home away from home at the Hampton, complete with friendly, helpful staff. Since we rolled into town a little late, we got settled at the Hampton, then drove around looking for some ~~vittles~~, er dinner. Supper to some of you. The only place we could find with decent parking that we knew would be open late was Village Inn. So yes, we drove hours away to eat at a chain restaurant that's close to home. Oh well. Getting some nourishment trumped the desire for something unique.

On Saturday, we had originally thought we'd head to Hanging Lake in the morning and then go to the Hot Springs later that day. Turned out that Saturday was going to be the hottest day and hiking to Hanging Lake takes some effort. Expending that effort in the heat didn't seem like such a great option. We checked out other local activities - of which there are many - and settled on renting some tubes to float down the Colorado River. So we made a quick phone call to one of the adventure companies only to discover that the river was too high and they weren't renting tubes that day. How about white water rafting? That looked promising - hubby made the reservation and we scrambled to get ready.

We made a quick jaunt over to Target (needed a couple things, as we hadn't planned on rafting), grabbed some fast-food lunch (oh joy), and headed downtown to the Glenwood Adventure Company. Downtown Glenwood can present some parking challenges and we were getting very tight on our timing. As we drove past the company, with its four parking spaces, we're looking all over the place and finding nothing. Our son said he thought there was a place in their parking lot. As if! But after going around a couple of blocks, we drove up and discovered that there was ONE place left. Apparently the Angel of Last Minute Rafters had saved it for us. Hallelujah! That got us there right on time.

We checked in, got fitted with vests by our guide, Mark, and attended the Everything You Need to Know About Rafting seminar hosted at the patio furniture out front. It was presented by a humorous Irishman. Because the Irish are so well-known for their mad rafting skills.

Then we all piled into a ~~ratty old van~~, the company's transport vehicle, and headed upriver.

There were only two parties heading out that afternoon, which was rather unusual for such a warm, perfect afternoon. We had already told the boys that we'd be on a raft with a number of other people, but the four of us could sit together. Turns out that was only half right. The other family went on a different raft while the four of us joined Mark on our raft. It was nice in some regards, because it was a little more laid-back with just the four of us and Mark. But that also means that we were the only paddle power for the raft.

Once the raft was unloaded and we had all the appropriate raft safety gear, Mark gave us the All The Safety Things You Need to Know as well as the Listen to My Commands and Know How to Implement Them speeches. It turns out there was a reason we had to seriously know this stuff at the beginning of the ride. All the good rapids on this particular run happen just about the time you get into the water. No time for practicing. No time to try it out and get a little correction. Just chuck you and the raft into the rapids and hope you paid attention to the onshore speeches.

Fortunately, John & I have done some rafting in the past, so we weren't complete newbs. Therefore, the boys did not volunteer to ride up front. And since there were no other people in the raft, except for Mark, who has to ride in back, that left those positions to John and me. You know, the face-first-into-the-rapids-and-waves position.

Other than the first set of rapids, in which were not quite in sync (no Justin Timberlake), we managed pretty well. After that little spot o'uncoordination, we pulled it together. The second portion of the run was fairly mild. But it gave us an opportunity to enjoy the amazing scenery in Glenwood Canyon, visit with Mark, who just happens to have grown up where we live, so we had a lot of commonality there, and just relax on the river.

Mark was a silly raft guide.

It was a great day.

Oh yeah, it's a good idea to wear waterpoof mascara when you're rafting. Or none. But since it was a last-minute adventure, such things never occurred to me. Until after the first set of rapids.

Wordless Wednesday - Lizard

2011-08-30T22:20:00.000-06:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

School Supplies - a Review

2011-08-26T16:29:00.002-06:00

DaySpring has some awesome school supplies this fall. They pack a punch with their messages about Jesus in a fun way. I had the opportunity to review some items from this new line. I received a binder, spiral notebook, and a folder of each design (perfect for my two teenage boys).

What a great reminder of the power of God. I think that's one that most of us can use. I know I can.

I love that this design reminds us of the freedoms that we still have here in the U.S. Sometimes we just take things for granted. It also serves as a good reminder to pray for those who don't.

Great message. Great quality.

If I didn't already have them, I would definitely buy some for my kids. But there's always me, right? I'm pretty sure I might be needing a new binder for this new school year. And there are some other terrific designs. Click the header above to see them.

If you like this set, it's currently on sale for just $13.09 for all six items! Check it out at the DaySpring site. It's a fantastic deal.

Speaking of deals, if you order before the month is over, you'll get 20% off your entire purchase! Use this code: DEALS20

Disclaimer: I received the above products for free to review. The opinions stated here are my own.

50mm Friday - Wilted

2011-08-26T12:11:00.000-06:00

Finally managed to get another 50mm Friday posted. This weekly meme is hosted at Hallie Westcott Photography, although she doesn't have a post and linky up today. Of course, you can peruse her other photos and just enjoy the view.

Wordless Wednesday - I Heart Cosmos

2011-08-23T22:01:00.000-06:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

Homeschool Report: Day 1

2011-08-22T23:31:00.000-06:00

We started back to homeschool today. I'm happy to report that we had a terrific day, even though plans weren't one hundred percent in place. Of course, there's always a number of administrative-type things to discuss - how this year will be similar to last year and how it will be different, what my expectations are, and such things. We also didn't get a very early start, as hubby needed some help with some business items, the boys didn't get up as early as they should've, and whatever other craziness was going on first thing.

I forgot to get a first day picture of the boys, so it will have to be a second day shot this year. I did, however, measure their height since they keep getting so tall. ClayGuy (my oldest) is 5' 10-1/2" and the Comedian is 6'. I've never felt particularly short because I'm a little on the tall side for women, but that sure has changed, hanging out with boys who are taller than me. In addition, most of their friends are taller then me. But I will say that it's handy to have tall boys - they can reach stuff that I used to have to manage myself.

So there you have it. A swell first day back to school and tall sons.

Life is good.

I Found It!!

2011-08-19T15:35:00.000-06:00

I saw it a few weeks ago. There was no room to turn around and get a picture. Plus we didn't really have time.

I was so disappointed.

Then a week ago, my sister called me to tell me she saw it on her way home from dropping her daughter off at school. The timing wasn't good for me to dash out, try and find it, and shoot it then, either.

I was even more disappointed.

And then this morning, it zoomed around our cul-de-sac. Almost at light speed. Amazing we even saw it. But my camera was upstairs. So was my phone. I dashed upstairs, at something less than light speed, making crazy little sounds of, "Oh! Oh! Oh!" only to come back to the living room and discover that it was long gone.

I was seriously disappointed now.

But I know this neighborhood like the back of my hand, er, the front of a map, or something. So I grabbed my camera and my phone (and my purse), asked the Comedian if he wanted to join me, to which he replied, "Not really. It doesn't sound like fun," and I took off.

I was well-rewarded this time, for I found my prey a mere block and a half away. I quickly pulled to the curb, shut off the motor, and got my camera into position.

CLICK

Dianne - 1

Disappointment - a BIG FAT ZERO!

Breckenridge

2011-08-19T08:53:00.000-06:00

The first day of our mini vacation found us in Breckenridge. They have an alpine slide and we thought it'd be fun to go take a ride. After all, John and I met at the alpine slide that used to be in Colorado Springs. We did have one small glitch in the plans, though. The Comedian is afraid of heights. The only way to ride down an alpine slide is to take the chair lift up the mountain.

I said I'd stay at the bottom with him while John and ClayGuy headed up the mountain.

I knew that the slide was on Peak 8 and we'd been there before and Breckenridge isn't that big a town. We didn't need no stinkin' directions. We drove a ways up Peak 8, but saw no signs or parking lot for the slide, so we headed back into town. Drove around a little more and finally stopped at Loaf 'n' Jug. Yes, to ask for directions. Unfortunately, the lady working there didn't know much and she drew a line on a map, joining two roads that aren't connected in reality. So we drove around some more. After a time, I looked closer at the map and discovered the cashier's mistake.

I finally pulled out the iPhone and did a little more research. Apparently I missed an important tidbit. The one that says you can't park up at the alpine slide. That you have to park in town and take the gondola. Great. The Comedian isn't any more likely to ride a gondola than a chair lift. I offered to stay in town him and we could walk around for awhile.

And then an amazing thing happened. Because it took such a long time to figure out where we were going, it gave the Comedian time to get his nerve up and he said he'd ride the gondola up the mountain.

Wow!

He did it. He got on, hung on, and closed his eyes. But only for a little while. He opened his eyes, tried not to look down, and relaxed a bit. Mostly.

Once we arrived at our destination, another miracle happened. He said he'd take the chair lift up and ride the slide! I think we talked the slide up enough that he really wanted to try it out. I guess he figured since he'd managed a gondola and survived, he could handle the chair lift. So he rode up with me. He even looked down.

Of course, the slide was fun. So he wanted to go again.

And we did. And he rode with John.

And there was much rejoicing!

Maybe even a Hallelujah Chorus.

25th Anniversary

2011-08-18T20:51:00.002-06:00

I spent nearly a week trying to come up with something good to write about our 25th anniversary, but drew a blank. Not that I don't majorly love my husband and think he's the best thing since bottled milk, cause I do. I think it was partly because I was busy with plans for our mini vacation. But that's a story for another post.

Me & John at Hanging Lake

We went out for a lovely dinner at the Mona Lisa where we had a delicious four-course fondue dinner in a cozy, romantic nook. It started with garden salads with a delicious apricot vinaigrette and old world Swiss fondue with veggies, fruit, and bread for our appetizer. This was followed with a traditional main entree, consisting of two types of steak, chicken, tiger shrimp, salmon, and brats, which were served with six different sauces. The pièce de résistance was an assortment of cakes, cookies, and fruit to dip in dark chocolate fondue with amaretto.

Since I covered it pretty well last year, I'm doing a repeat. Because all these things are still true about my amazing hubby.

He lets me sleep in on Sunday mornings, goes downstairs, and cleans the kitchen. Even though he needs the sleep more than I do.

He doesn't care what I do with my hair - long, short, straight, curly, colored, whatever

He buys milk early in the morning so the kids & I don't have to go without cereal (them) and iced chai latte (me)

He holds my hand when we're walking together

He always hugs & kisses me and tells me he loves me before leaving the house or going to sleep

He cleans the cat box

He pulls over and stops while driving so I can take pictures of things

He sometimes lets me have the remote

He thinks I'm beautiful even without makeup

He holds doors open for me

He has integrity

He taught me how to four-wheel

He is patient

He sends me sweet smoochie texts

He hugs & kisses me, just because

He loves our boys

He loves Jesus

He is honest and loyal

He writes me love notes on the shower walls

He lets me whine and vent when I'm overwhelmed. And he just listens.

He pushes the cart at the store

He supports me in homeschooling our boys

He gives me time off

He loves his in-laws

He is helpful to many

He works hard

He changes the oil in my van

He is humble

He disposes of the bad food in the frig

He gets rid of bugs and spiders

He loves his mom and siblings

He doesn't care if there's nothing planned for dinner and we eat pancakes. Or order pizza

He fixes almost everything

He has never been anything but kind to me

He lets me be me

He never complains about anything I don't do. Or do.

He loves me, no matter what

I sure do love you, John!!

Wordless Wednesday - Taking Off

2011-08-17T21:52:00.000-06:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

Blogging Overload

2011-08-16T12:50:00.000-06:00

As is my custom, being an all-or-nothing kind of gal, I will likely be inundating my blog with posts. This, after a few weeks of barely getting Wordless Wednesday posted. Maybe I should rename my blog - Feast or Famine Blogger. Nah, you all know I get lost on life's Bunny Trails, right?

A little preview of what's on tap:

Our family's awesome mini vacation

Celebrating 25 wonderful years of marriage

Reviews - inspirational school supplies from {in}courage and DaySpring, newest Mat Kearney CD, and a couple of overdue book reviews with giveaways

50 cubed update

Wordless Wednesday, of course

Participation in 31 Days of Photo Tips at My 3 Boybarians

New homeschool year with a senior & junior in high school

And because I can't post without a picture, here's one from our weekend away:

Glenwood Canyon

Wordless Wednesday - Escape

2011-08-09T22:01:00.001-06:00

More wordlessness? Check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

Wordless Wednesday - Deconstruction

2011-08-02T22:05:00.002-06:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

Wordless Wednesday - What?

2011-07-27T22:42:00.000-06:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

Wordless Wednesday - Lonely Delphinium

2011-07-19T22:26:00.000-06:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

High Maintenance

2011-07-19T11:27:00.000-06:00

I really don't want to be a high maintenance kind of person. I'm sure I am in some areas, but in others I've learned to be a little more low-key. And yet others were probably not a big deal in the first place. I believe that I just discovered the area of life in which I am completely and utterly high maintenance, though.

Dentistry

I haven't blogged much about my dental issues, and sadly they seem to be many. I've taken a rather hit-or-miss approach to my dental health. In part due to whether or not we had insurance. And it's been on that proverbial list of things I need to do . . . sometime. Well, sometime has arrived.

I have a very wimpy gag reflex. I can't even get through a mouthful of x-rays without problems. I sometimes gag while brushing my teeth.

Thanks to advances in dentistry, they have a nifty little lozenge that you dissolve in your mouth and it will calm your throat down somewhat in regards to the gagging issue. Unless you're me. And it doesn't work at all. Except that it does make my mouth and throat taste and feel a little funny after I leave his office.

Okay, so maybe we'll bypass the modern advances and go the route of old-fashioned methods. Salt on the tongue. Yep, I stuck my tongue out and the hygienist sprinkled salt on it. Then I press it to the roof of my mouth for a few moments.

That didn't work out either.

Since I could barely manage x-rays, we won't even talk about impressions. Because they didn't take them. I go back next week (cleaning, bite adjustment, and impressions) and in preparation of that appointment, I'm taking an antibiotic, which is fine. But I've also been prescribed a low dose of Xanax. And he's going to use Nitrous. I just have big issues about being tilted way back, my mouth being pulled open, stuff and hands all being in my mouth, and then gagging.

I have mouth claustrophobia.

swiped from Photobucket

The dental issues? Well, it's not pretty. I'm likely having a wisdom tooth (or two) pulled. Yes, I still have all my wisdom teeth. This does not make most dentists and hygienists very happy. It's probably part of the reason my front teeth are so tightly squished together. Possible root canal and crown (one or two). Maybe more pulling. Maybe a bridge. Maybe braces. Maybe something else. I don't really know yet.

I'll be taking my iPod and some tunes with me for sure. Even 25+ year ago, this dentist was using Walkmans with headphones for people to relax to during dentistry. He's really very cool.

The big question now? What should go on my dental procedure playlist?

Jet Pens - a Belated Review

2011-07-15T23:00:00.002-06:00

If you've been around for any length of time, you may recall that I have a slight obsession about pens. Okay, maybe more than slight. Yeah, lots more. I like fine point pens. I like a variety of colors of pens. I like certain types of pens on certain types of paper. I have similar feelings regarding pencils.

Come on, everyone has their quirks, right? Besides, I come by it honestly. I got it from my mom.

Well, one of my biggest issues with pens these days is that the manufacturers of pens sold in the US have changed the sizes, but not the names. Rather than regale you with further ranting, I direct you to this post. Please go read it. I'll wait.

You may have noticed that I mentioned a company called JetPens. Let me just say that I think the heavens split open and angels began to sing when I discovered them. I don't even recall how I found out about them*, but it was a glorious moment, for sure.

I left a couple comments over at their Facebook page and lo and behold they contacted me. They wanted to know if I would review some products for them. I nearly spilled my chai as I hurried to get my response typed to them.

YES, YES, YES.

And again I say YES.

Because I love their pens.

I think I mentioned that already. But I didn't want you to miss that point.

So dear sweet Lily at JetPens sent me a happy little package of pens which contained these three beauties.

The top pen is a lovely Ohto F Spirit Fountain Pen (fine nib) fountain pen - the tidy kind where you use an ink cartridge instead of a bottle of ink. They even have blue-black ink. It's such a cool color.

The second one is my favorite. The little Pieni is sweet, handy, and tiny. At about 4-5" long, it fits easily into a small purse pocket along with my Moleskine Volant X-Small Ruled Notebook

The third pen is a Tasche Needle Point Ballpoint Pen. This one is rather amazing because . . .

. . . it's actually a 0.7mm tip pen. Shhh! Don't tell anyone that I like it! It writes like a 0.5mm. It's another nifty little 4-5" pen. You take the cap off, put it on the back and you have a full-sized pen.

Not only do they have some of the best pens around and the best colors, but you also get free shipping if your order is over $25. And they ship quite quickly. My most recent order included these goodies:

The Jetstream Color Ink Ballpoint pen. This one writes so nice and smooth. Loving it.

But then, there's my most favorite of all. The one that write beautifully on Moleskine pages. The very fine, precise, beautifully colored UniBall Signo RT Lavender-Black gel pen in 0.38mm. Sigh. I buy these in multiples. It's a sad day if I run out. Maybe that's why JetPens is currently out of them. Well, that, and my mom buys them in multiples, too. It's probably her fault. Tee hee. Just kidding, Mom.

Thank you, JetPens for fulfilling my every pen dream.

Go shop the JetPens store. They even sell things besides pens. You never know what you might find over there.

Check out their blog. Sometimes they give away stuff.

Follow 'em on FB here.

* I do recall how I discovered them. I was looking at Moleskine hacks and someone mentioned having the right pen for writing in a Moleskine. That person shared a link with JetPens, as well as the name and info of said pen.

50 cubed - week 6

2011-07-13T18:35:00.001-06:00

I am happy to report that I am on my 9th day of ZERO SODA. This is huge. I almost caved last night because I really, really, really wanted a Mr Pibb at Chipotle. But then I knew I couldn't break the streak. I just couldn't. So no Mr Pibb. I drank iced tea instead.

Some days I'm not drinking as much as others, but I'm well on my way to drinking more water, dumping the soda habit (and other sugary drinks). This week will continue the increased water journey and next week, I'll venture into some other area of well-being.

I'm thinking it may have to do with fresh produce.

If you want to find out how the soda deal was clinched for me, check out last week's post here

Wordless Wednesday - Oversaturated Bubbles

2011-07-12T21:37:00.001-06:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

It's Monday

2011-07-11T22:09:00.001-06:00

...so I will just write some random stuff. Because I haven't done that in a long while. And I don't have any particular thing to write about tonight, but don't want to neglect my blog.

Vital Records and Such
The Comedian is ready to get his driver's permit, so I went to pull his Very Important Documents (birth certificate and SS card) out, only to discover that they're missing. UGH. So I go online and do a little research to find out what I need to get replacements. It turns out that a birth certificate is pretty simple. Fill out the form, have a picture ID (mine, since he's a minor and I'm requesting it), and hand over seventeen dollars and seventy-five cents. The very nice lady will go to her desk and do her magic and the printer will happily spit out a birth certificate. Easy peasy.

So it's onto the Social Security Administration where the sign isn't very readable that tells you to go the computer to have a number ticket for your turn. But the waiting area was quite comfortable and pleasant, with plenty of seating. They were on #119. We were given #161. Sigh. Going on a Monday was probably not the best option, but I had free time.

The Comedian thought we should try another time and not stick it out. I objected. Being the mom and the holder of the car keys, I won. He wasn't terribly happy about it, but I took the opportunity to explain that there are times in life when you just have to wait in a line or wait for a long time for something. It's not pleasant, but it's just the way life rolls.

Nearly an hour later, we walked out . . . failing completely to have the SS card ordered. It turns out that once 9/11 happened, everything became much more difficult to accomplish when it comes to important government documents. I have a birth certificate. I have the form filled out, completely with my son's SSN, DOB, and hubby's and my pertinent info. I have my ID. But apparently, that's not enough. They can't just look up his SSN on their computers, look at the info I've provided, and accept my request for a replacement card.

Mmmm....Fiber One 90 calorie brownie bars look very good.

Sorry about that. Sad, isn't it? A commercial in a blog post. Ha! Ha! I'm sometimes distracted.

So the nice man at the SSA office went down the list of other documents which would validate my son for the government.

School ID: We homeschool. They won't accept the ID that I provide.

Passport: Nope. He hasn't been out of the country.

Permit/License: Um, no. That's why I'm in need of his social security card.

Military ID: No. We're not military.

Doctor's Records (within the last 2 years): My son's quite healthy and hasn't been to the doctor in the past two years. No records that recent.

Somewhere around this time, my son remembers that he's been to the chiropractor this year. Would records from her office work? Yes, as long as it has his name and birth date on it. Very much unlike the birth certificate that has his name and birth date on it. Whatever. At least the kind man says that will work.

So, it's off to get another document later this week so that we can go back and repeat the process, hopefully with a better outcome.

ClayGuy's Latest Venture
My other son is busily creating a new claymation story. Instead of a quick little 30 second effort with a few clay figures, four rolls of film, a camera on a tripod, and Mom, he and a friend are diligently working on a storyline. He has another friend helping create the set. And yet another friend will help with the video. I'm excited to see how this will turn out.

instagram
I've been having some fun with instagram. While I often have a camera on me, it's so handy and easy to whip out the cell phone and shoot something. Since it comes with filters, it's super simple to add one and upload it wherever you want - Twitter, Facebook, Flickr, etc. You can check out my images at instagrid. You'll probably see a more quirky side of me there.

I think I've run out of stuff. Either that, or it's bedtime.

I believe it's the latter.

G'night.

Dill

2011-07-10T22:32:00.000-06:00

I really dislike dill pickles and anything flavored with dill. But I kind of like the light scent of fresh dill because it brings back happy childhood memories of my mom making pickles. Even though I didn't eat or like the pickles.

We have dill growing in our front yard and it's kind of pretty. It also brings back those happy memories. But as of last year, it's good for another thing. It hosts these beautiful caterpillars.

As near as I can tell from my research, these will be black swallowtail butterflies. If they make it that far, which most of them don't. I wish we could see their cocoons and watch them become butterflies. That would be so awesome.

If we didn't have the caterpillars, I'd probably thin the dill out. But I'm happy to leave them there for the caterpillars to feast upon.

I Heart Sourdough

2011-07-09T23:20:00.000-06:00

It's been awhile since I made sourdough bread and my starter died an early death. Happily, my mom got some new starter and graciously shared with me, so I'm back in business.

Risen dough

Loaves formed

Risen loaves

Final product

Apparently my family likes it. I baked a loaf yesterday and it's gone. It was one loaf out of the same batch, so it was twice the size of the two loaves above.

I'm using a slightly different recipe than in the past, but the nice thing is that it's much quicker than my old method. At this rate, I may be baking a loaf every day or two, so that could come in handy.

50 cubed - week 5

2011-07-07T20:44:00.016-06:00

Sometimes life forces your hand. All my lamenting over not drinking enough water has now been addressed in one fell swoop, thankyouverymuch.

I have some dental issues. The kind that involve pain. A lot of pain. And not sleeping. So I made a last-minute trip to the dentist on Tuesday. After x-raying a few teeth, assessing my issues, assigning me rinses and pastes and such, he mentioned that I should stay away from low pH sodas and other sugary drinks.

I assume he was referring to Cherry Dr Pepper.

Well then.

I guess I'll be drinking water, won't I? In fact, I've had no soda of any kind since Monday. I have, however, had a LOT of water. A pretty glass makes it taste better, too. Along with a fun straw.

Yes, it was my WW shot, but it fits. So there you go.

Wordless Wednesday - Summertime

2011-07-06T22:50:00.000-06:00

Check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub for more wordlessness.

50 cubed - week 4

2011-07-02T23:18:00.002-06:00

I almost ~~wussed~~ bailed on posting this week. I mean it's kind of a downer to just hear how much I can't drink water. I do not know what on earth is wrong with me.

{We interrupt this regularly scheduled blog post. Dianne just hit some keys that caused a crazy window to show up at the bottom of the screen with all her blog code. What keys did she hit? Where did that come from? Can she do it again? The answer to these and other questions may never be known. So we return you to your in-progress blog post.}

In the past, I've done a MUCH better job of drinking more water. It's almost as if the more I want to drink water, the less I do. It's insane, really. The big water jug? Yeah, that's working out great. NOT. The Mio? Ditto. I still can get a couple of days in with good water consumption and the rest? Not so much.

And it's been HOT here. Like upper 90s! Usually when it's hot, I'm MUCH better about drinking water.

I think I need to ground myself or something. Because I'm really not obeying well. At. All.

So yes, this is a couple days late. Yes, I tried to skip it. But I felt sorta guilty. What kind of accountability is that to myself if I just happen to not post? None. Zip Nada.

So, true confessions. Other than today, I've still been doing poorly with the water. Oh. And while I'm at it? The flaxseed is still sitting on the server. I stopped consuming it, too.

I am my own worst enemy.

One tiny victory, though. While I did have iced chai latte this morning, I went the entire day without soda - as in drinking WATER - until a late dinner tonight. But even then, I didn't have much. It just wasn't cutting it for me. Which is a good thing.

It's the beginning of a new habit. Right? One small step for . . . oh never mind. You get the picture.

Welcome Back Franklin

2011-07-01T23:40:00.001-06:00

Many, many year ago, in a land far away (well, maybe just across town), I worked in corporate America. Our company had a Franklin Certified Trainer. As in Franklin day planners. I was fortunate enough to get to attend said training.

It rocked and I was hooked.

I had a very good relationship with my Franklin planner for a long time. But somewhere along the way, life had fallen into a slightly more laid back mode, and Franklin was a little cumbersome for a handful of To Dos and some homeschooling. So he sat on the shelf. Occasionally, I'd feel the need to have a planner, but something smaller, leaner. I tried a variety of options. Each had its benefits and worked for a time. But Franklin was always there, quietly waiting. He knew his replacements could never compete.

And he was right.

While in Denver last week, I stopped off at the Franklin store. Yes, I know it's Franklin-Covey, but I met Franklin when he was solo. None of those helpful or successful or purposeful habits or anything. Just the meat and potatoes of the Franklin system. The system I love. The system I can pick up at any time and be transformed into Organized & Efficient Woman.

But I digress.

I had to wait until July 1 to get back into my Franklin routine. The refills begin either then or January 1. Well, I certainly can't wait around until next year to get my act together.

And now, here we are - July 1, 2011. The first day back together with my Franklin planner. Sigh. Look out all you pieces of my disorganized and fragmented life. I've got a partner this time and together, we're taking names and kicking butt.

Happy sigh.

Wordless Wednesday - Forks

2011-06-28T22:52:00.000-06:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

Sweet Shot Tuesday - Watering

2011-06-28T17:44:00.002-06:00

Every week I think I'll participate in Darcy's Sweet Shot Tuesday. I usually miss it. I caught this while watering in the morning.

50 cubed - week 3

2011-06-23T20:56:00.001-06:00

This water thing is getting the best of me. Or maybe it's actually not. I am terrible about drinking enough water. So this past week didn't result in much change. I can get a good day or so in, but that's about it.

Enter my new water dispenser.

I've marked on the side how far to fill this each night {so I have nice, super cold water in the morning} with how much water I'm supposed to drink in a day.

I might've gotten half of it in today.

I might be floating away this next week as my body adjusts.

But I'm not giving up. I'm going to rise to the challenge. I WILL drink all my water.

Wordless Wednesday - Stop Moving

2011-06-22T09:03:00.000-06:00

It's hard to shoot this little guy swaying in the breeze.

Check out more wordlessness at Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

50mm Friday - Communion

2011-06-18T21:58:00.000-06:00

Check out some other 50mm images at Hallie Westcott Photography. Or get your own 50mm out and join the fun.

fifty cubed - week 2

2011-06-16T18:25:00.001-06:00

You know when you ride on the roller coaster and that first hill is the biggest, fastest, most intense part of the trip? The rest of the ride is still fun and all, but it's the big hill that's the best.

That's kind of like my motivation.

I creep up that big hill and come screaming down with light speed motivation, but the rest of the time never gains quite the momentum.

I am very much like a three year old. Short attention span. Terribly short. Ditto on the motivation for just about everything.

That's precisely why I'm blogging this self challenge. I will need a kick in the pants to keep going. I need FastPass so I can quickly regain my motivation atop Disney's California Screamn'. Over and over and over again.

So what I'm pretty much saying here is that I did not succeed in my week of drinking more water. Well, I guess I did drink some more water than normal. But not nearly enough. I think I need to take a slightly stronger approach to this matter. Perhaps fill up a pitcher with all the water I should drink in a day and stick it in the frig. Then I have a visual reminder each time I open the refrigerator. That's probably a good thing, since I'm a very visual person.

Funny thing, that visual stuff. I'm getting more and more visual as the years go screaming past me. Toilet paper rolls left on the bathroom counter so I can remember to bring up a new package. Milk jugs by the front door so I'll remember to pick up more milk. It's no wonder my house is such a mess. Out of sigh, out of mind is truly the reality in my world. Therefore, I should never put anything away, right?

But I digress.

Speaking of digression. The flaxseed? Yeah, it's sitting on the server. You know, my visual reminder to take it. That's not panned out so well, either.

So this is my FastPass Kick in the Pants to get crackalackin' this week. {Try saying that three times fast}

Go ahead and remind me. Give me a nudge on Twitter or FB. I won't mind. Question me, even. Something's gotta give, and I'm hoping it's some excess weight, not the zipper on my pants.

To find out how this all started and what it's all about, check out the first post or the tab at up there below my header.

Pollen Collector

2011-06-14T21:41:00.000-06:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

50mm Friday - Sparkling Water

2011-06-09T23:51:00.000-06:00

I'm joining up with Hallie Westcott Photography for 50mm Friday. Come join the fun and see some other great 50mm images.

fifty cubed - week 1

2011-06-09T20:44:00.027-06:00

Week 1: FLAXSEED

I did well the first part of the week. It totally helped that I had prepared smoothies to mix up and drink. I definitely need to do that more often, because I'm a little on the lazy side when it comes to prep.

Beyond the smoothies, however, I sort of forgot my flaxseed. I even had more already ground and in the freezer. Oh well. The 4-5 days I did have it were a good start, I figure. So I'll be working this one in and starting on my Week 2 change.

Week 2: WATER. AGUA. H2O.

Of course I know how important water is to the human body. I know how much I'm supposed to have each day. I know how good it is for me. But getting this one from the brain to reality is a HUGE ongoing challenge. The reason? When it leaves the brain, there's this big old obstacle called MY TASTE BUDS. You see, the taste buds have a real thing for sweet stuff. Especially Cherry Dr. Pepper. So when they check out that water coming down the pike, they quickly rebel, because the straight stuff has no particular flavor. Sometimes, it actually tastes bleh.

Well, leave it to my brain to allow those silly taste buds to override its better judgment.

However, there is a pretty amazing new product called Mio. It's a water flavor enhancer. It's also a taste bud happifier. Yes, happifier is now a word. I just made it up. My taste buds are happy, happy, happy when presented with Mio enhanced water. This means I've been able to increase my water consumption. Which is a very good thing.

However, the Cherry Dr. Pepper still has a larger role in my liquid intake than it ought. So for Week 2, I will ramp up the water drinking. With the help of Mio, of course.

Contained

2011-06-07T22:45:00.000-06:00

Now that I've post-processed this to death.

Check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub for more great images.

Beauty from Ashes

2011-06-05T22:45:00.000-06:00

....or smoke. From fires in Arizona and southern Colorado.

50mm Friday on Saturday

2011-06-04T23:15:00.001-06:00

Hallie Westcott is hosting a 50mm Friday Meme. It's pretty simple - get your best 50mm shot, post it, and link up. Next week I'll have to see if I can get this posted on Friday. Come join in. It's not too late.

So I wandered around the yard a bit and settled on our patio lights.

fifty cubed

2011-06-01T21:01:00.000-06:00

AKA...

50 in 50 before 50

In exactly 50 weeks from today, I will turn 50 years old. I'm tired of weighing more than I ought/want and being less than healthy. I really dislike the idea of going into the second half of my life in this condition, physically speaking.

So I'm issuing myself a challenge. And I'm doing it publicly. I'm not good with accountability. It works for awhile, but eventually, I just slink away into hopeful obscurity, sort of like Carl does after blowing up the golf course.

But it's time for a change. Time to step off this downhill escalator of apathetic, eat what I want, get no exercise nonsense. For some reason, that plan hasn't worked out so well.

It may seem a little vague here right now, but that's okay. I am not following a particular plan. I know what I should and shouldn't eat. How much I should and shouldn't eat. I know all about the water I should drink, the exercise I should get, etc., etc. But at some point that knowledge has to make its way into active reality to be of any value. At this point, I intend to make at least one simple change each week. And then I'll blog about it.

I'm not posting a before picture or weight. At least not yet. Eventually, I imagine that I will want to do that. But I can't just now. Not publicly.

This isn't a meme, although I made myself a cute little button to put on my posts. It could be a meme, although I doubt that anyone else out there will turn 50 in 50 weeks and wants to lose 50 pounds by then. If there is, feel free to join in.

If a week goes by and you don't see me post about this, feel free to call me on the carpet. You can email me at bunny dot trails at yahoo dot com.

WEEK 1: FLAX SEED

I learned about the benefits of freshly ground flaxseed a number of years ago. Those little seeds are practically a wonder drug. Which makes me wonder why on earth I don't use it. But that's in the past, right? From the class that I took, some of the benefits include:

Assist in lowering cholesterol
Helps joints and arthritis
Improves mood
Excellent for female hormone balance and peri-menopause
Helps with both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
Can diminish food allergies
Helps with dandruff and skin problems
Lessen fatigue

My instructor also mentioned that flaxseed is the only significant plant source of Omega-3. A definite plus for people who don't like fish.

I actually have a big container of flaxseed. Which I ~~don't~~ didn't use. So today, I pulled it out and made myself a smoothie with some leftover berries, vanilla yogurt, milk, local honey, and freshly ground flaxseed. Since I was feeling industrious, I went ahead and prepared the ingredients for a few more smoothies in the extra cups, covered them, and stuck them in the frig. Now all I have to do is pull out a cup, toss in a few ice cubes and blend it with the Magic Bullet.

My primary goal this week is to have fresh ground flaxseed on a daily basis. I'll track any other improvements I make as well, but this is the focus for Week 1.

Wordless Wednesday - Retro Camping

2011-05-31T21:45:00.000-06:00

This is what I'd like to camp in.

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

Wordless Wednesday - Puddle Reflection

2011-05-24T22:24:00.001-06:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

Wordless Wednesday - Sox

2011-05-18T21:53:00.000-06:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

Wonder Maps - A Review

2011-05-18T00:49:00.000-06:00

Bright Ideas Press has an exciting new program called Wonder Maps. This comes from the same people who created Illuminations (you can see my review of that here. I think that Wonder Maps has to be the best thing since sliced bread. I can't tell you how many times I've been in need of a particular map and had the hardest time locating one. But no more, because Wonder Maps covers all the bases for your map needs.

The Wonder Maps program is installed on your computer and when you open it, the Home page comes up in Adobe Reader.

You then have the option of choosing from World Maps, United States Maps, Historical Maps, and Thematic Maps. In total there are over 350 customizable maps available to you. Once you locate the map you want in the appropriate section, you then have the flexibility of tuning various layers on and off, depending upon your particular needs.

For example, if you are studying US Geography, you can print out maps for each child with all the relevant data; state and city names, rivers and their names, capital locations and names, etc. Once you're ready to quiz or test your child, you can go back to the same map and turn off those layers, leaving you with a black and white outline map to print out.

Perhaps you need an historical map. In that section, there are four categories, The Ancients (Creation to 33 A.D.), The Middle Ages (33 A.D. to 1456 A.D.), The Renaissance, Reformation, and Growth of Nations (1457 A.D. to 1707 A.D.), Revolutions to Rising Times (1708 A.D. to present).

Now let's say you want specifics about the Aztec Empire. You simply go to the Renaissance option and scroll chronologically down to the desired map.

You may now select the layers you'd like to have on or off to customize your map. There is also a Modern Overlay which will show you what the map looks like in modern times. This can provide a very interesting perspective as you study historical maps.

The Thematic Maps section includes Biblical maps, Chinese Dynasties, Native Americans, Explorers, American History, World Wars, and 20th Century Treaties. Additionally, if you use Mystery of History or All American History (Bright Ideas Press), you can easily locate the maps that coordinate with those programs.

There is also a Teacher's Guide page on the Home site which provides you with additional resources; quick start guide, video tutorial, user manual, bonus MP3 workshops, and other helpful resources.

There is so much flexibility and so many map options available and yet the program is only $49.95. This is a product you will be able to use for many years, grades, and subjects. It's not consumable and you can print as many different maps as you need, or just review them on the computer.

Learn what other TOS Crew members had to say about Wonder Maps at the TOS Crew Blog.

Disclaimer: I was provided access to Wonder Maps to utilize their program for review as a member of the TOS Crew. The opinions stated here are my own.

GoTrybe - A Review

2011-05-17T23:20:00.000-06:00

GoTrybe is an online, interactive social community dedicated to the health and wellness of our youth. Their mission is to change some of the normal sedentary screen time into activity and health education. If children are going to spend time in front of a screen, why not make it productive?

You child will have an online account with GoTrybe where they can will have access to fitness, nutrition, motivation and wellness information. He or she can personalize the experience with a customized avatar and My Page. The fitness portion can be individually designed for each child, including instructional videos. They offer reward points as your child completes his or daily exercise program. The points can be redeemed for enhanced online rewards such as avatar upgrades.

GoTrybe is made up of three Trybes for kids to join:

ZooDoos up to 5th grade
Trybe180 6th-9th grade
Nextrybe 10th-12th grade

While I had hoped this would appeal to my not very active teenage son, since he loves all things computer related, I just couldn't get him on board with this. I imagine that it would be a little easier with younger or more motivated children.

You can find out more about the program and sign up for a free one-day trial at the GoTrybe website. If you want to subscribe, it's $19.95 for one year.

Learn what other TOS Crew members had to say about GoTrybe.com at the TOS Crew Blog.

Disclaimer: I was provided access to the GoTrybe site to utilize their program for review as a member of the TOS Crew. The opinions stated here are my own.

Be Prepared

2011-05-16T22:28:00.000-06:00

We were heading out for dinner tonight and I was waffling about whether or not to take my camera with me. Not the little point & shoot, as that doesn't bring on the waffling. The D-SLR which is probably part of the reason my shoulder's a little sore. I even took it out of my bag and left it on the table. Then I waffled again and put it back in my bag.

That was definitely a good move.

On the way home, we saw this on the horizon, so John quickly changed lanes and pulled off into an office complex. We went to the far east side and found a balcony we could stand on and watch the moon come up over the bluffs.

So glad I waffled in favor of the camera.

Wordless Wednesday - Apple Blossoms

2011-05-10T22:05:00.000-06:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

Hair Groove

2011-05-09T17:26:00.001-06:00

As much as I thought this would be a progressive posting project, it wasn't. No matter. Back in January, I started the process of helping my hair be curlier which I shared in this post. Here's a shot of my hair the day I bought the book. Rather undefined and sort of frizzy. Not awful, but not what I wanted, either.

After the first week, I saw some definite progress. It turns out that many of the things I'd been doing to my hair for years are totally wrong for curly hair. So I was my hair's own worst enemy.

I've still had some up and down days with a little more frizz than I want, but for the most part, I seem to have accomplished that which I set out to do.

A shot from this morning:

Interestingly, I'm actually happier with my hair than I've been in years. I've always been so incredibly fickle - wanting my hair to look different every few days, if not sooner. I've been wearing my hair the same way since the end of January. That's over THREE MONTHS! That has to be an all-time record for me.

Perhaps I've found my groove.

Follicle-y speaking anyway.

My hair groove.

One groove down.

271 more to go.

Approximately.

Mother's Day

2011-05-08T23:05:00.001-06:00

It was a lovely Mother's Day this year. I was able to sleep in while John cleaned the kitchen and dining room for me. We had lunch at his mom's and all of his siblings were there, which is always loads of fun.

We made a quick stop at the grocery store for frog eye salad ingredients and headed home. The only thing I had to take care of was making the frog eye salad. We already had some steaks and bacon-wrapped chicken for grilling and my mom and sister brought the rest of our BBQ dinner (chips, broccoli, and cookies).

While John was cleaning up the grill and patio (first use this year), I was able to take in some Vitamin D and relax with the latest Diane Mott Davidson book, Crunch Time, something I don't get to do terribly often.

Everyone came over and we had a lovely, enjoyable evening on the patio. The weather today was absolutely perfect. We never got the winds that had been predicted. John handled the grill and the rest of the dinner was simple and delicious.

Once everyone went home, I hung out with the guys while they watched River Monsters. Not my favorite show, personally, but they love it. I kept my nose in a magazine whenever the creepy critters show up onscreen. LOL!

All the way around, it was a nice and relaxing Mother's Day.

The Birds

2011-05-07T22:59:00.000-06:00

The birds of our neighborhood have taken an interest in us this year. More than just we like you cause you give us birdseed interest. They now stare in the windows at us. They've been on the window ledge in the living room, perched on patio furniture peering in the sliding doors, and then this.

I was sitting at my desk, working in peace and quiet, when there was a thud on my window. I turn to see what it was and this robin was sitting on a branch which was bouncing up and down from its rather heavy landing. I think the robin whacked into my window! What in the world is going on here?

Yesterday, one of the little finches was perched on the same window ledge, peeking in the window while the boys and I were doing Bible. This is getting very strange. The bird feeder has been empty for a little while, but I refilled it. And the robins never get any food there anyway, since they're so large.

But this? This is just weird. I am not inviting them into my house.

Although the cat might enjoy it.

Less is More: Linens

2011-05-05T22:33:00.000-06:00

Once upon a time, John and I had plenty of bath towels, very few sheets, and a reasonable amount of kitchen linens. We received bath towel sets aplenty as wedding gifts. Along the way, the towels decreased, as did the sheets. In fact, we lived with one set of sheets for a number of years. The downside to this is that you have to wash, dry, and get them back on the bed pronto. Either that, or pull out the sleeping bags.

Over the years, we acquired quite a few hand-me-down linens from my parents. Which was great. And then one day, the linen closet(s) said, "We've had enough. We are too full." So purging the linens has been on the proverbial To Do List for some time.

I actually started to the purge some time back, but being the I am the Queen of Unfinished Projects, I didn't follow through. In this case, that turned out to be a good thing. Because when I actually tackled this for the second time, I had a plan. A solid, strategic plan.

Instead of following my normal M.O., I sat down with pen and paper and made a list. I wrote down each type of linen we have; Bath Towels, Hand Towels, Washcloths, Queen Sheets, Twin Sheets, and so on. Then in each category, I thought about the amount we ought to reasonably keep. For example, in the Queen Sheet category, we need two sets - one flannel (cold weather) and one cotton (warm weather). I did this for all the categories.

In the meantime, I washed and folded ALL THE LINENS and piled them on my bed. I also put on a movie, because I couldn't possibly get through all this without some sort of entertainment. It was a big job. And no, I did not get a photo of that pile. I think I was distracted by the movie.

Anyway. Once I had my nice folded piles of linens, I pulled out the list and went to work. Queen Sheets? Two sets. I pulled out my favorite flannel set and my favorite cotton set (well, the flannels are actually ON the bed, so I left them there). All the rest went into a donation bag. Ditto with everything else.

I am happy to say that all the linens now fit in the closet space and we gladly donated two big bags of linens to the thrift store.

I was so proud of myself for coming up with such a terrific strategy. In the past, I just look at everything and keep what I like. Well, that hadn't panned out so well, as it always left me with more than I needed. I'm planning to apply this to other areas of stuff as I continue to purge and pursue my Less is More lifestyle.

Wordless Wednesday - Bouquet

2011-05-03T22:19:00.000-06:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

Wordless Wednesday - Meow

2011-04-26T22:36:00.000-06:00

For more wordlessness, check out the Wordless Wednesday hub and Live From Waterloo.

Nutrition 101 - A Review

2011-04-20T23:25:00.001-06:00

Are you tired of fighting the food battle with your kids? Does it seem that they don't really listen when you try and tell them why some foods are good for them and others aren't? Nutrition 101: Choose Life! is a comprehensive health and nutrition curriculum that can help take that pressure off of you, while helping you teach your children to understand the effects of food on the body for themselves.

Growing Healthy Homes is a site created to educate and train families regarding God's plan to optimum health as outlined in the Bible. Their product line includes family-centered and health-infused books/e-books, as well as educational materials for users of pure therapeutic-grade essential oils.

I was excited to have the opportunity to review Nutrition 101: Choose Life!. This 448-page book (also available on a CD-ROM or as a combo package) teaches about the major body systems; particularly how they function and the effects of food, both nutritional and not.

The twelve main body systems are covered in six units:

Unit 1 - The Brain and Nervous System
Unit 2 - The Digestive System
Unit 3 - The Respiratory, Olfactory, Auditory, and Visual Systems
Unit 4 - The Muscular and Skeletal Systems
Unit 5 - The Cardiovascular and Immune Systems
Unit 6 - The Endocrine System & Emotions

The program is designed to be taught over the course of a year. Each unit consists of four chapters which teach all about how that particular system works. They're engaging with fun facts, colorful images, and vocabulary words. They also include discussion questions, activities, additional resources, and recipes. There's a plan which outlines teaching one chapter per week. In addition, the recipes and an answer guide to the activities follow the six units and there are also 120+ pages in the Appendix, offering charts, tables, and articles to enhance your discussion and activities.

One of the goals of Nutrition 101: Choose Life! is for your child(ren) to learn to take responsibility for his or her own health. Instead of feeling like they have to eat certain foods or can't eat other foods just because their parents say so, they'll learn why those foods help or hurt their bodies, so that they're empowered to make intelligent decision on their own. If you're concerned about having a picky eater, one of the co-authors shares her tactics in the beginning of the book for just such a situation.

The book and CD-ROM are available at the Growing Healthy Homes website. You can read an excerpt from the book here. Just scroll down a little ways to the link.

I would definitely recommend this curriculum for teaching (or supplementing) your children about health and nutrition. It's a well thought out, comprehensive program.

You can also see what other TOS Crew members had to say about Nutrition 101: Choose Life! at the TOS Crew Blog.

Disclaimer: I was provided a copy of Nutrition 101: Choose Life! for review as a member of the TOS Crew. The opinions stated here are my own.

Wordless Wednesday - First Signs

2011-04-19T21:55:00.000-06:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.

All in One

2011-04-13T22:15:00.005-06:00

I mentioned the latest addition to my photography bag the other day.

Here's what it looks like when you have 18mm - 270mm in one lens.

Pretty handy, I think.

Wordless Wednesday - Blue

2011-04-12T22:20:00.000-06:00

For more wordlessness, check out Live From Waterloo and the Wordless Wednesday hub.